Callum Jones

People living in a part of Northampton where elderly and vulnerable residents have been targeted by rogue traders and distraction burglars have set up a ‘no cold calling’ zone.

High visibility signs have been put up in the Parsons Meade and Summerfields area of West Hunsbury area indicating that cold-calling is not welcome and crime prevention packs including door advice stickers have been delivered to local residents.

Residents in the area are also being urged to call a special police hotline 0345 23 07 702 to report any crime or suspicious callers at their homes. In an emergency they should always call 999.

The ‘no cold-calling’ scheme has been funded by Northampton Borough Council and supported by the Northampton Community Safety Partnership which includes Northamptonshire County Council’s Trading Standards team and Northamptonshire Police.

Similar schemes are already operating in 57 areas of Northamptonshire.

Councillor André Gonzalez de Savage, Northamptonshire County Council cabinet member for strategic infrastructure, economic growth and public protection, said: “Over the past ten years, we have been introducing this scheme to parts of Northamptonshire and have received some extremely positive feedback so far from local residents.

“Members of the public should never feel pressured into making a decision or agreeing to buy anything on the doorstep. Our advice is very clear – avoid opening the door to someone if you’re not expecting them.

“I would encourage residents to use businesses that are members of the county council’s Buy With Confidence scheme and have been approved by Trading Standards.”

The first ‘no cold-calling’ zone was launched in East Northamptonshire in August 2005.

Residents can report any suspicious activity by calling police on 0345 23 07 702. A list of approved traders who are recognised by the Buy With Confidence scheme can be found at www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/approvedtraders.